[Ron Wood]

I think alanint is correct and the apparent distortion of the breechblock is an illusion. Many years ago when I had more time than sense, I bought a British proofed and painted Luger in a pawnshop. I spent many hours over a period of a few days with 0000 steel wool and acetone removing the paint (I'm not sure the acetone did any good, I just kind of wore the paint off). It was worth the effort though. Under the paint was a very nice original finish and the gun looked pretty darned good.